The Sikh community was left outraged after pictures of Instagram influencer Archana Makwana performing yoga at Sri Darbar Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple Amritsar, went viral. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has filed a police complaint against Makwana and taken action against three employees for allowing her to perform yoga on the morning of June 21, which is observed as International Day of Yoga. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami appealed to the Sikh community to respect the sanctity of the holy place and to remember that people from all religions and countries come to pay their respects at the Golden Temple. An inquiry committee has been constituted by the SGPC to question the employees responsible for dereliction of duty.
Outrage Erupts at Golden Temple Yoga Incident: Sikh Community Demands Respect
The Sikh community has expressed outrage over an incident where an Instagram influencer, Archana Makwana, was seen performing yoga at the revered Golden Temple in Amritsar. The act has been deemed highly disrespectful and has sparked a wave of anger and condemnation.
Background:
The Golden Temple, also known as Sri Darbar Sahib, is the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts countless pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The temple's sanctity and spiritual significance are paramount for Sikhs.
The Incident:
On June 21, 2022, which is observed as International Day of Yoga, Makwana posted pictures and videos of herself performing yoga on the sacred marble platform of the Golden Temple. The incident sparked immediate outrage among Sikhs, who condemned it as a blatant disregard for the sanctity of their holy place.
Reaction from Sikh Authorities:
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the body responsible for managing Sikh shrines, has taken swift action against those involved. A police complaint has been filed against Makwana, and three SGPC employees have been suspended for allowing her to perform yoga.
SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami has appealed to the Sikh community to maintain the dignity and reverence of the Golden Temple. He emphasized that the shrine is a place of worship and not for personal or commercial exploitation.
Inquiry and Consequences:
An inquiry committee has been constituted by the SGPC to investigate the incident and determine how Makwana was allowed to perform yoga inside the temple. Further disciplinary action is likely to be taken against those found responsible.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
Q1: Why is the incident so offensive to Sikhs? A1: The Golden Temple is a sacred place of worship for Sikhs, and any act that is perceived as disrespectful or exploitative is met with strong disapproval. Performing yoga on the temple platform is seen as a violation of its sanctity and a disregard for Sikh beliefs.
Q2: What is the SGPC's role in this matter? A2: The SGPC is responsible for the management and upkeep of Sikh shrines, including the Golden Temple. It has the authority to take disciplinary action against individuals or employees who violate the temple's rules and regulations.
Q3: What are the possible consequences for Makwana? A3: Makwana could face criminal charges and may also be banned from visiting the Golden Temple in the future. The SGPC has indicated that it will pursue all legal avenues to ensure that the sanctity of the temple is protected.
Q4: Have similar incidents occurred in the past? A4: There have been isolated incidents in the past where individuals have attempted to perform yoga or other inappropriate activities at the Golden Temple. However, this incident has drawn widespread attention and sparked significant outrage due to the influencer's social media presence.
Q5: What is the Sikh community's message to visitors? A5: The Sikh community welcomes all visitors to the Golden Temple with respect and expects them to adhere to the temple's rules and traditions. They emphasize that the shrine is a place of peace, worship, and reflection, and it should be treated with the utmost reverence.
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